Presented by Dr. Keisha Scarlett, Superintendent, Saint Louis Public Schools (MO); Dr. Tanya Wilson-Thevanesan, Deputy Superintendent, Fairport Central School District (NY); and Kelly Carpenter, Chief Academic Officer, Gananda Central School District (NY)
Moderated by Nate Lichte, Director of Marketing, Institute for Education Innovation

Sponsored by Institute for Education Innovation

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This expert panel of educators, advocates, and community leaders share their insights, experiences, and practical approaches to supporting LGBTQ+ inclusion in schools. From inclusive curriculum development to creating safe spaces and implementing supportive policies, they cover a range of topics that will help educators and school leaders create positive change.

This recorded edLeader Panel is of interest to K-12 school and district leaders.

About the Presenters

Dr. Keisha Scarlett is the new Superintendent of St. Louis Public Schools in Missouri. She has 24 years of experience in education, including serving as Chief Academic Officer in Seattle Public Schools. In that role, she implemented a strategic plan to increase early literacy among African American boys and students furthest from educational justice. She is also co-founder of the Academy for Rising Educators, a tuition-free educator preparation program with a 90% retention rate. Keisha was selected as Washington State Middle-Level Principal of the Year in 2014 for her work leading a Title One-funded school to 80% proficiency on state exams across multiple grades. She is a member of both Chiefs for Change Future Chiefs Cohort 7 and University of San Diego Future Superintendent Cohort.

Dr. Tanya Wilson-Thevanesan is the Deputy Superintendent of Fairport Central Schools in New York. She is the Deputy Superintendent for School Improvement and Community Engagement in Fairport Central School District. As an equity-driven leader, Tanya amplifies student voice and works to eliminate barriers and disparities impacting access. She is passionate about women in leadership and is committed to sponsoring and promoting women as Cabinet members and Superintendents. A former middle school principal in an urban setting, Dr. Wilson-Thevanesan co-led the writing of Monroe County Inquiries, a curricular project that uses Rochester’s history of racial inequities to empower social studies students across the area in social justice change and advocacy. She leads professional development across the region in culturally responsive and sustaining pedagogy and serves as a panelist and speaker on closing access gaps for women in educational leadership.

Kelly Carpenter is the Chief Academic Officer for the Gananda Central School District in New York. With 30 years of experience in education, including 21 years in administration, she leads the district’s DEI initiative and transition to personalized learning. Kelly serves on the Wayne Finger Lakes Regional DEI Steering Committee and is Co-President of the Genesee Valley Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development. She mentored new administrators and is passionate about empowering students, staff, and colleagues. Previously, as High School Principal, she raised the graduation rate from 78% to 95% in just four years. Kelly’s commitment to excellence drives her career.

About the Moderator

Nate Lichte is the Director of Marketing and Public Relations at the Institute for Education Innovation (IEI). With a decade of experience in education across K-12, post-secondary, and adult learning, Nate brings a wealth of knowledge. Starting as an admission representative, Nate quickly rose to Assistant Director of Admissions, leading a team of 20 representatives. He then ventured into roles within colleges and universities, advocating for education improvement. Nate’s expertise extended to companies like MyMajors and Ad Astra Information Systems, where he implemented innovative marketing and sales strategies.
As the former Managing Director of Brainchild, Nate guided the organization through a global pandemic, achieving exceptional growth. Now at IEI, he spearheads marketing, communications, and membership growth, supporting strategic initiatives for sales and client acquisitions. Nate is a passionate advocate for equity and inclusivity, driving IEI’s brand awareness. Based in Kansas City, Missouri, Nate and his husband share their home with their beloved rescue dogs. Beyond their fulfilling careers, they cherish their roles as devoted uncles to nieces and nephews of various ages.

Learn more about viewing the live presentation and the recording, earning your CE certificate, and using our new accessibility features.

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The Institute for Education Innovation is bridging the gaps between the individuals and organizations committed to seeing students succeed in school and life, creating a safe space for constructive problem-solving and innovative thinking.